Understanding Dry Mouth and How to Manage It

Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, occurs when your salivary glands produce less saliva. While a temporary condition is normal – often due to dehydration or anxiety – a chronic problem may be linked to underlying health conditions, medications, or lifestyle factors.

Common causes include medications such as antihistamines, antidepressants, and blood pressure drugs, as well as conditions like Sjögren’s syndrome, diabetes, and cancer care like radiation and chemotherapy.

Saliva is critical to maintaining oral health by washing away food particles, neutralising acids, and protecting decay from forming. When saliva is reduced, your teeth and gums are at higher risk for cavities, gum disease, and oral infections, making regular oral care essential.

Common Signs and Symptoms Experienced

Some common symptoms include a sticky feeling, bad breath, a sore throat, or difficulty swallowing. In more severe cases, this condition could lead to tooth decay, cracked lips, and mouth sores. If you consistently experience these symptoms, it’s worth consulting our dentist for more advice tailored to your needs.

Simple Strategies You Should Try

Just making small adjustments to stimulate saliva production and keep your moisture at a high level can help you manage your symptoms. Our dentists offer these simple tips:

• Chew sugarless gum or suck on sugarless candy to stimulate saliva
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
• Use a humidifier at night, especially if you tend to breathe through your mouth
• Avoid beverages with caffeine, alcohol, or carbonation, as these can worsen the issue

If the problem persists, your dentist may recommend special rinses or lozenges designed to increase moisture and relieve your symptoms.

Any invasive or surgical procedure may carry risks. Before moving forward, it is recommended that you seek a second opinion from an appropriately licensed medical professional.